Wednesday, December 17, 2008

My BOGO Shopping Test

As a shopper, I was skeptical about BOGO specials, which are store promotions that offer merchandise at a rate of buy-one-get-one free or half-off. Following the trail of BOGO signs, I have purchased matching sets of accessories, home products and personal care products that I don't really need or want. Those past results have taught me to steer clear of most BOGO sales.

But a recent conversation with a teenage girl prompted me to review my policy. Evelyn Kendall, a high school student, uses BOGO sales to stretch her clothing budget by shopping with another teenager. Together, they look for two-for-one sales.

''We split the cost,'' Kendall said. "She'll get one and I'll get one.''

Based on her example, I've put together my own BOGO policy. Here's how I plan to use promotions offering either free or discounted merchandise.

The Need Test: Do I really need this merchandise? Will I use it or am I just buying stuff that will needlessly fill cabinets, closets and landfills?

The Thrift Test: Am I really saving money or are there cheaper options? Have I compared prices using other promotions or online search engines?

The charity or gift option: Can I use the BOGO item as a gift or as a charitable donation?

2 comments:

Interesting post. I use bogo for things like shampoo and shower gel where I don't feel allegiance to any particular brand so I can enjoy the savings. How do you feel about giving something to charity that you got for free?

I will do BOGO's only if it's something I am going to buy anyway--at some point. I may end up buying it earlier than I planned because of the special. I especially use it for toiletries at the grocery store. I know I will need more conditioner!

About Me: Writer, Mom and Journalist

I'm another spoiled writer, with fine tastes and a small budget. Author of a newspaper column about saving money. I have a fashionably frugal attitude: Live well, find meaning and stay on a budget.
Photo credit: Melanie Bell

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